The history of the PCA

PCA - Our History  

The Phlebotomists Council of Australia (PCA) emerged in 2019 as a grassroots movement led by Phlebotomists, driven by the need for a professional association in an industry marked by isolation. With a staggering 95% of Phlebotomists operating in solitary or remote environments, the formation of our community filled a significant void.

The onset of the Covid-19 pandemic brought safety to the forefront of concerns within the Pathology Sector. In response, our founder, Bec Luxton, immersed herself in the Union Movement to gain deeper insights into the sector's dynamics. In August 2023, the PCA Union was formalised, spurred by the plight of Dorevitch Workers who faced workplace rights challenges and the threat of demotion by the Health Workers Union.

Prior to the PCA's establishment, the predominant association in the Australian Pathology Sector was the Health Services Union, alongside various State Unions and the United Workers Union. However, these unions lacked a nuanced understanding of the unique working conditions in Pathology and showed limited interest in organising isolated workers. This gap in representation propelled the PCA to advocate for the rights of Pathology workers proactively.

The landmark Dorevitch Back Pay Win exemplifies the PCA's commitment to defending worker rights. When Dorevitch sought to implement operational changes resulting in layoffs and demotions, the PCA intervened, securing reinstatement and back pay for affected employees. This victory underscored the importance of a dedicated union in safeguarding the interests of Pathology workers. It will also go down in history as the largest financial win for any employee representative group in their first 3 months of formal operations. 

The industrial landscape in Pathology resembled antiquated practices, reminiscent of bygone eras. Workers found themselves disadvantaged by agreements negotiated by previous unions and employers, leading to inadequate benefits and diminished rights. The PCA, through its advocacy efforts, aims to rectify these disparities and ensure fair treatment for all Pathology workers.

Despite the challenges, the PCA strives to be more than just a union; we are a beacon of advocacy, education, and innovation in the Pathology Sector. By fostering skills and attracting talent, we aim to elevate the sector's standards and amplify the voices of healthcare heroes who stood on the frontline during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The PCA's influence extends beyond conventional union activities. Through petitioning and involvement in accreditation processes, we advocate for safer and more conducive work environments in Pathology. Our efforts aim to address systemic issues such as bullying and lack of consultation, ensuring that Pathology remains a respected and vital component of the healthcare industry.

As we navigate the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, the PCA confronts staffing and skills crisis plaguing the sector. Through strategic initiatives such as improved training and advocacy for fair wages, we seek to address these challenges and secure a brighter future for Pathology workers.

At our core, the PCA remains a member-led, democratic association, empowering our members to drive change and shape the culture of Australian Pathology. By partnering with experts and embracing progressive changes in industrial relations law, we continue to champion the rights and dignity of those working in Pathology.

Join us in our mission to revolutionise Australian Pathology and ensure a brighter future for all its stakeholders.

To join the community changing the culture in Australian Pathology: https://forms.gle/pdyXkAaWuwaSaPyW7

To donate and support the PCA's advocacy efforts, visit our website www.pcaunion.com.au